City loosens rules to allow some topless swimmers at Seattle pools, beaches

Seattle's parks director has approved new guidelines for Seattle's public pools and beaches in response to a controversy over a breast cancer survivor who wanted to swim topless after her double mastectomy. (AP file)

A cancer survivor who was told last summer that she couldn’t swim topless at a Seattle pool has helped force a change in city policy.

The Seattle Parks Department has now published relaxed new rules that require pool supervisors to grant exceptions.

Jodi Jaecks forced the issue, saying swimsuit tops are uncomfortable because of her scars from a double mastectomy.

The new guidelines are posted online and will go up at beaches and pools. The rules prohibit swimsuits that expose female breasts or genitals and exclude other inappropriate clothing, such as thongs.

People who want a special accommodation are required to check with a staff member at the city pool or swimming beach.